Stories have the power to shape how children understand the world, especially when culture and nature are woven together with care. When storytelling is rooted in identity, it creates pride, curiosity and responsibility. A new children’s book developed by Imaginary House and Panthera brings Lozi heritage and leopard conservation into focus through an engaging, child-friendly narrative. By blending cultural preservation with wildlife protection, the book introduces young readers to the importance of safeguarding both ancestral knowledge and endangered species for future generations.

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Imagnary House, the 2025 Bologna Prize winner for Best Children’s Publishers in Africa, proudly announces the release of Libo and the Leopard: Keeper of the Stars, a beautifully illustrated children’s book written by Emily Child and brought to life by artist Mary-An. This captivating story is more than just a tale; it’s an invitation to connect with nature, heritage, and the urgent need to protect wildlife.

Produced in collaboration with Panthera, the global wild cat conservation organisation, Libo and the Leopard aims to raise awareness about leopard conservation and the cultural significance of Heritage Furs within the Lozi community of Zambia.

A soft media launch was held on 10 December from 16:00 to 17:00. A physical book launch event will take place in Cape Town on 21 February 2026 at the V&A Waterfront at 11:00 and in Johannesburg on 28 February in Rosebank at 10:00.

Enjoy the free audiobook in English (voiced by Mdu Kweyama) and Silozi (voiced by Pelekelo Shwana), making this audiobook a first of its kind.

Proceeds from book sales will benefit Panthera’s Furs for Life program, a conservation initiative providing synthetic Heritage Furs that preserve cultural traditions while protecting wild leopards.

Book Synopsis

“I am Libo and this is the story of how I helped a leopard and saved the stars.” Libo dreams of being a Royal Paddler on the king’s barge, but to do so, he needs a leopard fur of his own to wear. One early morning, before the sun has risen, he sneaks out to fulfil his dream…

Emily Child, the author, shares, “I hope to honour the Lozi people with a story that explores the connection between people and the Liuwa Plains, encouraging a deep respect for Lozi heritage and culture. I hope this story inspires wonder in readers — both those who have never heard of the Liuwa Plains and those who call it home.” She adds, “Working on this book was a great honour, allowing me to feel the majesty of the Liuwa Plains and to honour both nature and culture.”

Since 2016, the Barotse Royal Establishment in Zambia has innovatively protected wildlife by adapting traditional ceremonies to use synthetic Heritage Furs instead of real animal skins. This sustainable change ensures the preservation of sacred cultural practices like Kuomboka and Kufuluhela while protecting leopards and other wild animals. As Mukela Manyando, a community leader, notes, “The Heritage Fur garments have been very well received among the Lozi community, as seen during their ceremonies since their introduction.”

Libo and the Leopard encourages young readers to become Heritage Guardians by pledging to respect wild animals and their habitats. The book includes engaging activities to deepen understanding and spread awareness of this vital cause.

Libo and the Leopard will be available in bookstores nationwide on launch dates. More information about the book can be found at: https://imagnaryhouse.com/products/libo-and-the-leopard-keeper-of-the-stars. (ISBN 978-1-037-08824-7, RRP R225.00)